For The Better

A new study examines the efficacy of particle filtration by woven fabric, which consists of fibers twisted together into yarns. There are, therefore, two lengthscales: the diameters of the fiber and the yarn. Using 3D imagery produced by confocal micro…

Intestinal cells can change specializations during their lives. The BMP signaling pathway — an important communication mechanism between cells — appears to be the driver of these changes, according to research with organoids and mice. The study offer…

The development of highly secure but simple and inexpensive encryption technology for the prevention of data leaks and forgeries is decidedly challenging. A research team has now introduced a ‘double lock’ based on thermoresponsive polymer hydrogels th…

Neurons in the brain coexist with and rely on many other cell types to function properly. Astrocytes, which take their name from their star shape, ensure the survival of neurons by feeding and detoxifying them with the help of a multifunctional protein…

The physics and chemistry that take place deep inside our planet are fundamental to the existence of life as we know it. But what forces are at work in the interiors of distant worlds, and how do these conditions affect their potential for habitability…

A new study suggests genetic material from E. coli bacteria in farm animals could be contributing to the evolution of deadly strains of E. coli in humans.

Water is an abundant and essential compound, found everywhere on Earth. Yet despite its familiarity and simple structure, water displays many unusual physical properties. For more than a century, scientists have turned their attention to the study of w…

A signature found in the cheek cells of mothers and fathers of preterm infants may help develop a test to determine whether a pregnancy may end too early. Such a test could help prevent premature births and the many resulting health impacts on infants …

Scientists have published the first record of a Noble False Widow spider feeding on a protected species of Pipistrelle bats in the UK. The new study demonstrates that False Widow spiders continue to impact native species.

Researchers have developed a new theoretical model to better assess the risks of spreading viruses such as COVID-19 — with and without a face mask. The results show how the standard ‘safe’ distance of two meters does not always apply but varies greatl…

A ubiquitous protein called sigma 1 receptor, which is known to protect cells from stress, appears key to the function and survival of the neurons most impacted by glaucoma, scientists report.

Small particles from tires inhibited the growth and caused adverse behavioral changes in organisms found in freshwater and coastal estuary ecosystems, two new research papers found.

Semiconductor experiments reveal a surprising new source of conductivity from oxygen atoms trapped inside the material.

Doing less exercise could deactivate a vital protein in the body, causing further inactivity and making exercise more difficult, new research suggests.  Deactivating the Piezo1 protein, a blood flow sensor, reduces the density of capillaries carrying b…

New research reveals how our immune system can be triggered to attack cancer cells. The research could help develop new approaches to treating people with leukemia. The team studied acute myeloid leukaemia – a blood cancer which is very difficult to tr…